What were the principal functions of castles in medieval England and Wales?
Originally, castles, built by the Normans in 11/12th century were meant to impress upon the population that the Normans were here to stay and the superiority of the Norman “technology”….as time went by, things like moats and baileys were replaced by stronger, higher walls built of stone with towers in them. This was a defensive maneuver….the Normans feared each other more than the conquered population….and strong bases were needed. The castle was the residence of the local “king”….there were many at one time, each governing a particular area and wielding influence in that are, keeping a garrison of men for the defense of the land and the carrying out of the law…..the kings garrison, family and other families of high standing. When there was need, the population surrounding the castle was able to take refuge in it. The castles served many purposes, but above all, they were for defense.
